Simons Simplex Collection

The Simons Simplex Collection (SSC) is a core project and resource of the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI). The SSC achieved its primary goal to establish a permanent repository of genetic samples from 2,600 simplex families, each of which has one child affected with an autism spectrum disorder, and unaffected parents and siblings.

Each genetic sample has an associated collection of data that provides a precise characterization, or phenotype, of the individual. Rigorous phenotyping maximizes the value of the resource for a wide variety of future research projects on the causes and mechanisms of autism. Roughly 1,500 families are available for recontacting for additional research projects via a registry called the Simons Simplex Community at the Interactive Autism Network (SSC@IAN).

The SSC was operated by SFARI in collaboration with 12 university-affiliated research clinics. The clinics identified and assessed potential SSC participants, with guidance from the University of Michigan Autism and Communication Disorders Center, to ensure uniformity across clinics. Active enrollment of participants ended in 2011.

Previous pioneering efforts to collect genetic samples focused on families that include multiple individuals with autism, most notably the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange, an ongoing effort to identify these so-called ‘multiplex’ families. The SSC differs from those efforts in its focus on simplex families, and in its clinic-based assessment and diagnosis.

Data are collected and managed using software developed by Prometheus Research, LLC. A central database characterizing all of the study participants (with identifying information removed) is available to any qualified researcher through SFARI Base.

A subset of approximately 1,500 families is enrolled in a registry at SSC@IAN and is available for recontacting for additional research projects. Qualified researchers may apply via SFARI Base for consideration to access the families. The Recruitment Process Document provides answers to many frequently asked questions.